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June 14, 2022
Improving protein expression in E. coli B‑strains using rapid genome engineering
Improving protein expression in E. coli B‑strains using rapid genome engineering
Date: June 14, 2022
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD, Microbial Engineering Applications Manager, Inscripta
Abstract: E. coli B‑strains, such as BL21, and their derivatives are often used for protein expression due to their optimized amino acid production, ATP utilization, lon and ompT protease deficiency, and reduced acetate accumulation. However, optimizing B‑strains for increased protein production using modern approaches to genome engineering has not been reported. Here we apply CRISPR-based, high-throughput genome-wide and pathway-specific editing to improve the expression of an enzyme. With shallow sampling of the genome-edited libraries, we identify variants with greater than 2‑fold improvement in active protein expression. This work demonstrates how rapid genome engineering can be applied to significantly enhance protein expression in E. coli.
May 12, 2022
Implementing shallow screening strategies to accelerate microbial strain improvement
Implementing shallow screening strategies to accelerate microbial strain improvement
Date: May 12, 2022
Speaker: Eileen Spindler, Senior Director of Applications, Inscripta
Abstract: The ability to move rapidly through the Design-Generate-Test-Learn (DGTL) cycle is essential for effective forward engineering of microbial phenotypes. The Onyx® platform is an automated CRISPR-based genome editing technology that enables rapid diversity generation. To optimize the DGTL cycle, effective diversity generation must be paired with an appropriate screening strategy for isolated genetic variants. Here we discuss the benefits of creating a higher edit diversity in cell populations while using a shallow screening approach with high-throughput and automated phenotyping systems such as Rapid Fire Mass Spec and plate-based fluorometric assays. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach using both metabolic and strain engineering examples, including a 14,000-fold improvement in lysine biosynthesis in E. coli and 4‑fold increase in heterologous protein production in S. cerevisiae.
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April 5, 2022
Investigating antimicrobial mechanisms-of-action using automated genome-wide and gene-specific editing
Investigating antimicrobial mechanisms-of-action using automated genome-wide and gene-specific editing
Date: April 5, 2022
Speaker: Ali Clark-ElSayed, Research Associate, Inscripta
Abstract: Members of the cinnamic acid and stilbenoid chemical families are common intermediates in the production of important bioindustrial compounds. However, these molecules can inhibit microbial growth and stifle production capabilities. Since the underlying mechanism of action is unclear, ways to ameliorate inhibition can be time consuming and difficult to identify. Here we use automated, high-throughput, precise and trackable genome editing to probe biological responses to p‑coumaric acid and resveratrol. Using a combination of genome-wide and gene-specific edits, we identify genes and individual residues that show enrichment or depletion in the presence of p‑coumaric acid or resveratrol. This method represents a new approach to small molecule mechanisms-of-action discovery, providing target leads that can subsequently be used to engineer tolerance or enhance sensitivity to antimicrobial compounds.
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March 7- March 9, 2022
March 2022 Healthcare Conference — Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel
March 2022 Healthcare Conference — Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel
Date: March 7- March 9, 2022
Speaker:
Sri Kosaraju, CEO, Inscripta
Eric Hobbs, CEO, Berkeley Lights
Emily Leproust, CEO, Twist Bioscience
Sri Kosaraju, CEO, Inscripta
Eric Hobbs, CEO, Berkeley Lights
Emily Leproust, CEO, Twist Bioscience
Abstract: This is an ideal forum for objective first-hand updates on both marketed and emerging products across the sector with more than 375 public and private companies across the entire health care spectrum. Cowen research analysts will host public companies in fireside chat sessions and corporate panel discussions to engage in enlightening discussion with management teams.
Join the Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel on March 7 at 10:30 am ET
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Join the Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel on March 7 at 10:30 am ET
March 9, 2022
Biosecurity for Genome Engineering: Safety First and the SeqScreen Solution for Functional Predictions
Biosecurity for Genome Engineering: Safety First and the SeqScreen Solution for Functional Predictions
Date: March 9, 2022
Speaker:
Todd Treangen, Assistant Professor, Computer Science, Rice University
Krista Ternus, PhD, Genomics/Bioinformatics Specialist; Science and Technology Advisor at Signature Science, LLC
Beth Vitalis, PhD, Biosecurity Specialist, Inscripta Inc
Todd Treangen, Assistant Professor, Computer Science, Rice University
Krista Ternus, PhD, Genomics/Bioinformatics Specialist; Science and Technology Advisor at Signature Science, LLC
Beth Vitalis, PhD, Biosecurity Specialist, Inscripta Inc
Abstract: Bioengineering technologies hold enormous potential to solve many of our world’s pressing problems. However, they also pose biosecurity considerations. Inscripta® is committed to safe use of its genome engineering technology and has implemented multi-faceted biosecurity system designed to identify and help prevent biorisk potential of engineered organisms. Drs. Ternus, Treangen, and Vitalis will describe approaches and challenges of genome engineering biosecurity and highlight a computational tool that can predict protein function of large numbers of engineered sequence variants. The SeqScreen platform was developed by a multi-institutional team led by Signature Science and Rice University under the IARPA Fun GCAT program. Case studies will illustrate how SeqScreen serves as a comprehensive tool to report features and predicted function of novel sequences arising from bioengineering.
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February 1, 2022
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Date: February 1, 2022
Abstract: The Design – Generate – Test – Learn (DGTL) cycle represents an efficient approach to biological engineering, from single-gene to whole-genome scale. Significant improvement can be achieved in a short amount of time by recombining beneficial edits through iterative cycles of genome editing. In order to cut down development times, all aspects of the DGLT cycle must be optimized. The Onyx™ Digital Genome Engineering Platform automates the Design and Generate steps, allowing the user to create thousands of edits, identify the beneficial variants, and construct new libraries based on the improved strains – all in an integrated, seamless workflow. Here we demonstrate how Iterative Genome Engineering can be used to discover novel protein variants, optimize expression, and improve heterologous protein production in yeast and E. coli strains.
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January 26, 2022
Symposium: Digital Genome Engineering: Unlocking the Potential of Synthetic Biology
Symposium: Digital Genome Engineering: Unlocking the Potential of Synthetic Biology
Date: January 26, 2022
Speaker:
Ginkgo Bioworks: Bob Van Hove, PhD, Program Director
Sestina Bio: Andrew Horwitz, PhD, Vice President, R&D
Amyris: Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President, R&D
Inscripta: Nandini Krishnamurthy, Eric Abbate, Patrick Westfal
Infinome: Richard Fox
Ginkgo Bioworks: Bob Van Hove, PhD, Program Director
Sestina Bio: Andrew Horwitz, PhD, Vice President, R&D
Amyris: Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President, R&D
Inscripta: Nandini Krishnamurthy, Eric Abbate, Patrick Westfal
Infinome: Richard Fox
Abstract: Synthetic biology is disrupting diverse markets from chemicals to food, cosmetics, materials, and therapeutics. Whether you’re a metabolic engineer optimizing lysine biosynthesis in E. coli or seeking to conduct a genome-wide functional genomics screen in yeast, Digital Genome Engineering is the key to unlocking the limitless applications of synthetic biology. Realizing the full potential of this game changing technology in your research requires accessing the latest tools, understanding industry trends, and learning from best practices of industry leaders.
In partnership with SynBioBeta, Inscripta® is bringing together synthetic biology thought leaders for an innovative, FREE 2‑hour symposium. The sessions will feature perspectives from industry leaders, highlight the latest innovations in Digital Genome Engineering, and provide a vision for the future of SynBio.
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In partnership with SynBioBeta, Inscripta® is bringing together synthetic biology thought leaders for an innovative, FREE 2‑hour symposium. The sessions will feature perspectives from industry leaders, highlight the latest innovations in Digital Genome Engineering, and provide a vision for the future of SynBio.
January 13, 2022
Genome-Wide CRISPR Editing for Improved Protein Expression in Yeast
Genome-Wide CRISPR Editing for Improved Protein Expression in Yeast
Date: January 13, 2022
Speaker: Eric Abbate, PhD, Director of Analytical Biochemistry, Inscripta
Abstract: Heterologous protein production is an indispensable tool in biotechnology and biopharma for manufacturing enzymes, protein therapeutics, and more. Generating robust production strains involves strategies that target both the protein expression cassette and the host genome. However, despite advances in strain engineering, optimization of protein production is still constrained by low-throughput and laborious methods that limit the success of strain optimization efforts.
In this GEN webinar, our distinguished presenter, Dr. Eric Abbate, will demonstrate a novel multiplexed genome-wide editing approach to optimize the cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CBH1) production in S. cerevisiae. Additionally, we will learn how multiplexed and trackable editing libraries enable the discovery of new targets. These libraries comprise a wide range of edit types and targets, including genome-wide and targeted knockouts, short deletions, alternate codon, transcription factor binding sites, and terminator libraries. Finally, Dr. Abbate will describe how to identify beneficial edits across targets involved in transcription, translation, glycosylation, secretion, protein degradation, and other cellular processes, as well as evaluate the success of using targeted vs. untargeted libraries for strain engineering.
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In this GEN webinar, our distinguished presenter, Dr. Eric Abbate, will demonstrate a novel multiplexed genome-wide editing approach to optimize the cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CBH1) production in S. cerevisiae. Additionally, we will learn how multiplexed and trackable editing libraries enable the discovery of new targets. These libraries comprise a wide range of edit types and targets, including genome-wide and targeted knockouts, short deletions, alternate codon, transcription factor binding sites, and terminator libraries. Finally, Dr. Abbate will describe how to identify beneficial edits across targets involved in transcription, translation, glycosylation, secretion, protein degradation, and other cellular processes, as well as evaluate the success of using targeted vs. untargeted libraries for strain engineering.
January 10, 2022
40th Annual J.P. Morgan HealthCare Conference — Synthetic Biology Panel
40th Annual J.P. Morgan HealthCare Conference — Synthetic Biology Panel
Date: January 10, 2022
Speaker: - Max G. Bronstein, Assistant Director for Health Innovation, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy
— Jason Kelly, CEO, Ginkgo Bioworks
— Sri N. Kosaraju, President and CEO, Inscripta
— Gregory L. Yep, PhD, EVP, Chief Research & Development, Global Integrated Solutions and Sustainability Officer, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc
Moderators:
— Tycho Peterson, Managing Director, Life Science Tools & Diagnostics, J.P. Morgan
— Ipsita Smolinski, Managing Director, Capitol Street
— Jason Kelly, CEO, Ginkgo Bioworks
— Sri N. Kosaraju, President and CEO, Inscripta
— Gregory L. Yep, PhD, EVP, Chief Research & Development, Global Integrated Solutions and Sustainability Officer, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc
Moderators:
— Tycho Peterson, Managing Director, Life Science Tools & Diagnostics, J.P. Morgan
— Ipsita Smolinski, Managing Director, Capitol Street
Abstract: Join the panel to discuss the genetic technology known as synthetic biology. Two industry heavyweights — Ginkgo & Inscripta — will describe genomic engineering & organism technologies. The White House will weigh in on how it evaluates technologies and partnerships to further US science and technology priorities. One key trade association will discuss the impact synthetic biology has on non-health applications, fragrances and other flavors.
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December 8, 2021
The MAD7™ nuclease in plant editing: overcoming CRISPR bottlenecks with MAD TiGER
The MAD7™ nuclease in plant editing: overcoming CRISPR bottlenecks with MAD TiGER
Date: December 8, 2021
Speaker: Gabino Sanchez, Business Development Director, Hudson River Biotechnology
Ben Mijts, Senior Director Enzyme Engineering, Inscripta
Ben Mijts, Senior Director Enzyme Engineering, Inscripta
Abstract: CRISPR editing has revolutionized plant breeding, and the MAD7 CRISPR nuclease developed by InscriptaTM is democratizing access to CRISPR technologies. Hudson River Biotechnology has developed a proprietary, validated molecular breeding workflow called MAD TiGER, which stands for Target identification, Guide selection, Entry into the cell and Regeneration using the MAD7 nuclease. MAD TiGER enables molecular breeding in an end-to-end fashion, providing innovative solutions to the typical barriers encountered in CRISPR plant breeding projects, such as cell entry and regeneration. The MAD TiGER workflow uses the MAD7 nuclease, nanotechnology and various synthetic gels to enable faster onset of cell divisions in regenerating and de-differentiating protoplasts towards micro-calli formation. During this webinar, Gabino Sanchez of Hudson River Biotechnology will provide an overview of the MAD TiGER workflow and discuss examples of using an integrated workflow for molecular breeding. You will also learn more about the MAD7 nuclease from Inscripta.
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November 17, 2021
Chemicals & Materials Virtual Event — SynBioBeta 2021
Chemicals & Materials Virtual Event — SynBioBeta 2021
Date: November 17, 2021
Speaker: Patrick Westfall, Senior Director, Inscripta. Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President, R&D, Amyris. Andrew Horwitz, Vice President, R&D, Sestina Bio.
Abstract: Inscripta’s Senior Director of Cell Biology, Patrick Westfall, led a panel discussion “Biological Engineering the Next Generation of Materials and Chemicals” with Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President of R&D Amyris, and Andrew Horwitz of Sestina Bio. Westfall asked the panelists about the process of selecting products they want to make and what considerations go into making those decisions.
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November 16, 2021
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Date: November 16, 2021
Speaker: Patrick J. Westfall, PhD, Senior Director of Cell Biology, Inscripta Inc
Abstract: Discovery in biological research was historically driven by empirical methods. The advent of biological engineering, propelled by technological developments and new tools, has made rational hypothesis-driven design and engineering of biological systems more feasible and common. Although they are often seen as opposing approaches, the empirical and rational methods can work together to accelerate fundamental research and product development. Whereas forward engineering is guided by informed design of known biological pathways and processes, the exploratory empirical methods allow to expand the design space beyond the scope of current knowledge. This webinar discusses the advantages of each method and how they could be implemented in tandem to advance biological engineering.
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October 14, 2021
Heterologous Protein Engineering and characterization of native regulatory elements in E. coli using Massively Parallel CRISPR Editing
Heterologous Protein Engineering and characterization of native regulatory elements in E. coli using Massively Parallel CRISPR Editing
Date: October 14, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD, Microbial Engineering Applications Manager, Inscripta
Abstract: Heterologous protein expression in model organisms has many applications, including protein engineering, production of industrial enzymes and therapeutics, and structure-function discovery. Heterologous proteins are commonly expressed from plasmids to facilitate cloning and genetic manipulation. However, plasmid-based expression has many drawbacks, such as reduced stability and limited control over gene copy number. With CRISPR editing, chromosomal gene integration and subsequent editing has become more accessible, enabling thorough examination of protein expression and function. In this webinar, we demonstrate how we generated an E. coli saturation mutagenesis library for a chromosomally expressed green fluorescent protein (GFP) using the OnyxTM platform. We identify several engineered variants with increased fluorescence or altered spectral characteristics, including literature validated and novel variants. We also generate a library of all predicted E. coli promoters and ribosome binding sites (RBS) and quantify their strength using the engineered high-expression GFP reporter system. These high-throughput experiments yield insights into native regulatory sequences and demonstrate the advantages of heterologous protein engineering directly in the host genome.
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September 13, 2021
Identifying genome-wide targets of osmotic stress tolerance in E. coli using CRISPR-mediated forward engineering
Identifying genome-wide targets of osmotic stress tolerance in E. coli using CRISPR-mediated forward engineering
Date: September 13, 2021
Speaker: Katherine Krouse, Sr. Research Associate, Applications Development, Inscripta
Abstract: Biological responses to environmental stress can arise from multiple genetic solutions encoding tolerance mechanisms. In order to investigate the response to osmotic pressure in E. coli, we used an automated CRISPR editing workflow to generate a diverse cell population that included gene knockouts and different strength promoter substitution libraries targeting almost every gene in the genome. The resulting 25,000-variant pooled library was studied under a titrated salt challenge and the population dynamics were tracked using plasmid barcodes. By mapping 300,000 data points, we identified clear enrichment and depletion patterns and connected those back to functional genome annotations. We were able to rapidly validate our experiment with the performance of known salt stress tolerance loci, such as rpoE and osmE, and discover new gene targets.
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August 25, 2021
Improving heterologous protein production in yeast with massively parallel CRISPR genome editing
Improving heterologous protein production in yeast with massively parallel CRISPR genome editing
Date: August 25, 2021
Speaker: Eric Abbate
Abstract: Heterologous protein production is an indispensable tool in biotechnology and biopharma for manufacturing enzymes, protein therapeutics, and more. Generating robust production strains involves strategies that target the protein itself as well as the host genome. Despite advances in strain engineering, optimization of protein production is still limited by the ability to access the broad sequence space, constrained by traditional, low-throughput, and laborious methods like promoter substitutions or random mutagenesis. Here we use a genome-wide, multiplexed, targeted editing approach that can generate diverse edit types in both the heterologous gene and across the host genome to optimize production of cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CHB1) in S. cerevisiae. The edits conferring improved CBH1 expression span cellular processes important for protein production, including transcription, translation, secretion, and protein degradation pathways.
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July 28, 2021
Population bottlenecks strongly affect the evolutionary dynamics of antibiotic persistence
Population bottlenecks strongly affect the evolutionary dynamics of antibiotic persistence
Date: July 28, 2021
Speaker: Bram Van den Bergh — Postdoctoral Researcher, KU Leuven | FWO | VIB Centre for Microbiology
Abstract: Bacterial persistence is a potential cause of antibiotic therapy failure. Recent studies have shown that persistence is a highly evolvable trait, reaching varying frequencies within populations, depending on the selective conditions that are applied (e.g. the treatment frequency). Theory predicts that population bottlenecks, frequently encountered during host-to-host transmission and antibiotic treatment, have far-reaching effects on the evolutionary dynamics of persistence. Here, we used a combination of experimental evolution and barcoded knockout libraries to examine this hypothesis. Small bottlenecks were found to restrict the adaptive potential of populations and result in more heterogeneous evolutionary outcomes, suggest that the fitness landscape of persistence has a rugged topography. Furthermore, sequencing data revealed genes that are potentially involved in persistence, including previously known as well as novel targets.
VIEW MORE
June 15, 2021
CRISPR-based multiplexed genome editing for improved heterologous protein engineering and expression in E. coli
CRISPR-based multiplexed genome editing for improved heterologous protein engineering and expression in E. coli
Date: June 15, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd
Abstract: During this webinar, discover how Inscripta experts generated an Escherichia coli saturation mutagenesis library against an integrated green fluorescent protein (GFP) using CRISPR-based technology, in a few short weeks.
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May 26, 2021
Delivering on the Promise: Synthetic Biology in Biopharma Bioproduction
Delivering on the Promise: Synthetic Biology in Biopharma Bioproduction
Date: May 26, 2021
Speaker: Sri Kosaraju — President & CEO, Inscripta; Grant Murphy — Director of Protein Engineering, Merck & Co; Chris Savile — Chief Operations Officer, Willow Biosciences; Barry Canton — Chief Technical Officer, Gingko Bioworks
Abstract: The panel of industry leaders discuss technologies and microbial applications of synthetic biology in biopharma bioproduction.
Watch Video
May 25, 2021
Massively Parallel CRISPR Genome Editing in S. cerevisiae
Massively Parallel CRISPR Genome Editing in S. cerevisiae
Date: May 25, 2021
Speaker: Bryan Leland
Abstract: In this webinar, we will discuss our work using the Onyx platform to perform genome-wide engineering of S. cerevisiae for various applications including target discovery to increase glycerol utilization, strain optimization, and forward engineering. These applications are enabled by Onyx’s ability to deliver diverse edit types that regulate gene function and expression beyond simple gene knock-outs. In total, dozens of libraries of engineered cells, containing over 100,000 precise genomic edits have been created and tested to accelerate forward engineering and genomic discovery.
Watch Video
April 27, 2021
Proteins, Pathways and Genomes: Innovations in Forward Engineering
Proteins, Pathways and Genomes: Innovations in Forward Engineering
Date: April 27, 2021
Speaker: Eric Abbate
Abstract: Lysine, predominately used as an animal feed supplement, is a multi-billion-dollar industry however supply is limited due to the cost of current production methods. This webinar will share case studies how Inscripta leveraged its new CRISPR-based technology to design, generate, and screen libraries totaling > 200,000 single edits to improve lysine production in E. coli. Dozens of beneficial edits across the entire genome were discovered to accelerate the Design-Generate-Test-Learn cycle and increase the lysine production by 14,000-fold — ushering in the next era of genome editing.
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March 30, 2021
A New Era in Forward Engineering of Proteins, Pathways and Genomes using the Onyx™ Platform
A New Era in Forward Engineering of Proteins, Pathways and Genomes using the Onyx™ Platform
Date: March 30, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd
Abstract: Since its introduction, CRISPR has become a core genome editing tool that has transformed biological research. First-generation CRISPR technologies were limited in scalability, accessibility, edit variety, and ease of use, restricting their potential. Inscripta’s Onyx™ platform addresses these limitations by combining easy-to-use, intuitive software with a push-button automated benchtop device, enabling high-efficiency, massively-parallel, precision-engineered edits to Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli genomes. In this webinar , Tyson Shepherd will present applications in E. coli that leverage this platform. He will show how a library totaling more than 25,000 different designs and a separate library of 900 designs yielded new biochemical insights underpinning tolerance to a panel of growth-inhibitory compounds. These applications demonstrate the power of the Onyx platform to usher in a new era of genome editing.
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January 26, 2021
High-throughput CRISPR editing using the Onyx platform identifies essential residues in proteins
High-throughput CRISPR editing using the Onyx platform identifies essential residues in proteins
Date: January 26, 2021
Speaker: Liselot Dewachter and Laura Klitten
Abstract: In this study, we used the high-throughput CRISPR-based Onyx platform to perform saturation mutagenesis on four different essential genes involved in cell envelope synthesis in E. coli. 22,790 edits were designed. We used these saturation mutagenesis libraries to probe the essentiality of all different residues. Edits that could not be introduced suggests those residues are essential for protein function. We identified known essential amino acids (i.e. catalytic residues and residues involved in substrate binding), thereby validating our experimental approach. Several residues that were previously not known to be essential were identified. We expect our results to offer vastly improved insights into protein function, help fight against antibiotic resistance and aid structure-based drug design targeted against these essential proteins.
Watch Video
October 20, 2020
Massively parallel CRISPR genome editing in S. cerevisiae using the Onyx Platform
Massively parallel CRISPR genome editing in S. cerevisiae using the Onyx Platform
Date: October 20, 2020
Speaker: Bryan Leland
Abstract: In this webinar, we discuss our work using the Onyx platform to perform genome-wide engineering of S. cerevisiae for various applications including target discovery to increase glycerol utilization, strain optimization, and forward engineering. These applications are enabled by Onyx’s ability to deliver diverse edit types that regulate gene function and expression beyond simple gene knock-outs. In total, dozens of libraries of engineered cells, containing over 100,000 precise, genomic edits have been created and tested to accelerate forward engineering and genomic discovery.
Watch Video
September 1, 2020
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 2 Combinatorial Optimization
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 2 Combinatorial Optimization
Date: September 1, 2020
Speaker: Richard Fox
Abstract: Many of the governing rules of biology are still not known nor well understood. Thus, forward engineering of biological systems will continue to rely on empirical methods. A central challenge in forward engineering is to find genetic interventions that lead to improved function. Combinatorial optimization (fueled by large-scale diversity generation) takes ideas that show promise and recombines them in novel configurations to leverage the principles of evolutionary optimization. This optimization process is further accelerated through strategies that incorporate machine learning. Such models are interrogated to efficiently guide new library designs. Strategies and tools to effectively apply the principles of diversity generation (and combinatorial optimization) have been developed over the last two decades and are now routinely used to rapidly engineer biological systems.
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August 25, 2020
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 1 Diversity Generation
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 1 Diversity Generation
Date: August 25, 2020
Speaker: Richard Fox
Abstract: Significant potential exists to harness the power of biology to better humanity and the environment, however, substantial challenges remain. Forward engineering of biological systems will continue to rely on empirical methods. Diversity generation is one of two key principles needed to reach desired outcomes in a rapid, efficient and cost-effective manner. Sequence space is vast. A central challenge in forward engineering is to find genetic interventions that lead to improved function. A large-scale diversity generation approach, where many thousands of ideas are rapidly tested, has proved to be crucial to addressing this challenge. Strategies and tools to effectively apply the principles of diversity generation (and combinatorial optimization) have been developed over the last two decades and are now routinely used to rapidly engineer biological systems.
Watch Video
July 28, 2020
Rebuilding evolutionary success Using Inscripta’s Onyx Digital Genome Engineering Platform to ease and enhance ALE experiments
Rebuilding evolutionary success Using Inscripta’s Onyx Digital Genome Engineering Platform to ease and enhance ALE experiments
Date: July 28, 2020
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD
Abstract:
Watch Video
July 28, 2021
Population bottlenecks strongly affect the evolutionary dynamics of antibiotic persistence
Population bottlenecks strongly affect the evolutionary dynamics of antibiotic persistence
Date: July 28, 2021
Speaker: Bram Van den Bergh — Postdoctoral Researcher, KU Leuven | FWO | VIB Centre for Microbiology
Abstract: Bacterial persistence is a potential cause of antibiotic therapy failure. Recent studies have shown that persistence is a highly evolvable trait, reaching varying frequencies within populations, depending on the selective conditions that are applied (e.g. the treatment frequency). Theory predicts that population bottlenecks, frequently encountered during host-to-host transmission and antibiotic treatment, have far-reaching effects on the evolutionary dynamics of persistence. Here, we used a combination of experimental evolution and barcoded knockout libraries to examine this hypothesis. Small bottlenecks were found to restrict the adaptive potential of populations and result in more heterogeneous evolutionary outcomes, suggest that the fitness landscape of persistence has a rugged topography. Furthermore, sequencing data revealed genes that are potentially involved in persistence, including previously known as well as novel targets.
VIEW MORE
May 26, 2021
Delivering on the Promise: Synthetic Biology in Biopharma Bioproduction
Delivering on the Promise: Synthetic Biology in Biopharma Bioproduction
Date: May 26, 2021
Speaker: Sri Kosaraju — President & CEO, Inscripta; Grant Murphy — Director of Protein Engineering, Merck & Co; Chris Savile — Chief Operations Officer, Willow Biosciences; Barry Canton — Chief Technical Officer, Gingko Bioworks
Abstract: The panel of industry leaders discuss technologies and microbial applications of synthetic biology in biopharma bioproduction.
Watch Video
January 26, 2021
High-throughput CRISPR editing using the Onyx platform identifies essential residues in proteins
High-throughput CRISPR editing using the Onyx platform identifies essential residues in proteins
Date: January 26, 2021
Speaker: Liselot Dewachter and Laura Klitten
Abstract: In this study, we used the high-throughput CRISPR-based Onyx platform to perform saturation mutagenesis on four different essential genes involved in cell envelope synthesis in E. coli. 22,790 edits were designed. We used these saturation mutagenesis libraries to probe the essentiality of all different residues. Edits that could not be introduced suggests those residues are essential for protein function. We identified known essential amino acids (i.e. catalytic residues and residues involved in substrate binding), thereby validating our experimental approach. Several residues that were previously not known to be essential were identified. We expect our results to offer vastly improved insights into protein function, help fight against antibiotic resistance and aid structure-based drug design targeted against these essential proteins.
Watch Video
July 28, 2020
Rebuilding evolutionary success Using Inscripta’s Onyx Digital Genome Engineering Platform to ease and enhance ALE experiments
Rebuilding evolutionary success Using Inscripta’s Onyx Digital Genome Engineering Platform to ease and enhance ALE experiments
Date: July 28, 2020
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD
Abstract:
Watch Video
June 14, 2022
Improving protein expression in E. coli B‑strains using rapid genome engineering
Improving protein expression in E. coli B‑strains using rapid genome engineering
Date: June 14, 2022
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD, Microbial Engineering Applications Manager, Inscripta
Abstract: E. coli B‑strains, such as BL21, and their derivatives are often used for protein expression due to their optimized amino acid production, ATP utilization, lon and ompT protease deficiency, and reduced acetate accumulation. However, optimizing B‑strains for increased protein production using modern approaches to genome engineering has not been reported. Here we apply CRISPR-based, high-throughput genome-wide and pathway-specific editing to improve the expression of an enzyme. With shallow sampling of the genome-edited libraries, we identify variants with greater than 2‑fold improvement in active protein expression. This work demonstrates how rapid genome engineering can be applied to significantly enhance protein expression in E. coli.
May 12, 2022
Implementing shallow screening strategies to accelerate microbial strain improvement
Implementing shallow screening strategies to accelerate microbial strain improvement
Date: May 12, 2022
Speaker: Eileen Spindler, Senior Director of Applications, Inscripta
Abstract: The ability to move rapidly through the Design-Generate-Test-Learn (DGTL) cycle is essential for effective forward engineering of microbial phenotypes. The Onyx® platform is an automated CRISPR-based genome editing technology that enables rapid diversity generation. To optimize the DGTL cycle, effective diversity generation must be paired with an appropriate screening strategy for isolated genetic variants. Here we discuss the benefits of creating a higher edit diversity in cell populations while using a shallow screening approach with high-throughput and automated phenotyping systems such as Rapid Fire Mass Spec and plate-based fluorometric assays. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach using both metabolic and strain engineering examples, including a 14,000-fold improvement in lysine biosynthesis in E. coli and 4‑fold increase in heterologous protein production in S. cerevisiae.
VIEW MORE
April 5, 2022
Investigating antimicrobial mechanisms-of-action using automated genome-wide and gene-specific editing
Investigating antimicrobial mechanisms-of-action using automated genome-wide and gene-specific editing
Date: April 5, 2022
Speaker: Ali Clark-ElSayed, Research Associate, Inscripta
Abstract: Members of the cinnamic acid and stilbenoid chemical families are common intermediates in the production of important bioindustrial compounds. However, these molecules can inhibit microbial growth and stifle production capabilities. Since the underlying mechanism of action is unclear, ways to ameliorate inhibition can be time consuming and difficult to identify. Here we use automated, high-throughput, precise and trackable genome editing to probe biological responses to p‑coumaric acid and resveratrol. Using a combination of genome-wide and gene-specific edits, we identify genes and individual residues that show enrichment or depletion in the presence of p‑coumaric acid or resveratrol. This method represents a new approach to small molecule mechanisms-of-action discovery, providing target leads that can subsequently be used to engineer tolerance or enhance sensitivity to antimicrobial compounds.
VIEW MORE
March 7- March 9, 2022
March 2022 Healthcare Conference — Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel
March 2022 Healthcare Conference — Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel
Date: March 7- March 9, 2022
Speaker:
Sri Kosaraju, CEO, Inscripta
Eric Hobbs, CEO, Berkeley Lights
Emily Leproust, CEO, Twist Bioscience
Sri Kosaraju, CEO, Inscripta
Eric Hobbs, CEO, Berkeley Lights
Emily Leproust, CEO, Twist Bioscience
Abstract: This is an ideal forum for objective first-hand updates on both marketed and emerging products across the sector with more than 375 public and private companies across the entire health care spectrum. Cowen research analysts will host public companies in fireside chat sessions and corporate panel discussions to engage in enlightening discussion with management teams.
Join the Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel on March 7 at 10:30 am ET
VIEW MORE
Join the Synthetic Biology Enabling Technologies Panel on March 7 at 10:30 am ET
February 1, 2022
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Date: February 1, 2022
Abstract: The Design – Generate – Test – Learn (DGTL) cycle represents an efficient approach to biological engineering, from single-gene to whole-genome scale. Significant improvement can be achieved in a short amount of time by recombining beneficial edits through iterative cycles of genome editing. In order to cut down development times, all aspects of the DGLT cycle must be optimized. The Onyx™ Digital Genome Engineering Platform automates the Design and Generate steps, allowing the user to create thousands of edits, identify the beneficial variants, and construct new libraries based on the improved strains – all in an integrated, seamless workflow. Here we demonstrate how Iterative Genome Engineering can be used to discover novel protein variants, optimize expression, and improve heterologous protein production in yeast and E. coli strains.
VIEW MORE
January 26, 2022
Symposium: Digital Genome Engineering: Unlocking the Potential of Synthetic Biology
Symposium: Digital Genome Engineering: Unlocking the Potential of Synthetic Biology
Date: January 26, 2022
Speaker:
Ginkgo Bioworks: Bob Van Hove, PhD, Program Director
Sestina Bio: Andrew Horwitz, PhD, Vice President, R&D
Amyris: Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President, R&D
Inscripta: Nandini Krishnamurthy, Eric Abbate, Patrick Westfal
Infinome: Richard Fox
Ginkgo Bioworks: Bob Van Hove, PhD, Program Director
Sestina Bio: Andrew Horwitz, PhD, Vice President, R&D
Amyris: Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President, R&D
Inscripta: Nandini Krishnamurthy, Eric Abbate, Patrick Westfal
Infinome: Richard Fox
Abstract: Synthetic biology is disrupting diverse markets from chemicals to food, cosmetics, materials, and therapeutics. Whether you’re a metabolic engineer optimizing lysine biosynthesis in E. coli or seeking to conduct a genome-wide functional genomics screen in yeast, Digital Genome Engineering is the key to unlocking the limitless applications of synthetic biology. Realizing the full potential of this game changing technology in your research requires accessing the latest tools, understanding industry trends, and learning from best practices of industry leaders.
In partnership with SynBioBeta, Inscripta® is bringing together synthetic biology thought leaders for an innovative, FREE 2‑hour symposium. The sessions will feature perspectives from industry leaders, highlight the latest innovations in Digital Genome Engineering, and provide a vision for the future of SynBio.
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In partnership with SynBioBeta, Inscripta® is bringing together synthetic biology thought leaders for an innovative, FREE 2‑hour symposium. The sessions will feature perspectives from industry leaders, highlight the latest innovations in Digital Genome Engineering, and provide a vision for the future of SynBio.
January 13, 2022
Genome-Wide CRISPR Editing for Improved Protein Expression in Yeast
Genome-Wide CRISPR Editing for Improved Protein Expression in Yeast
Date: January 13, 2022
Speaker: Eric Abbate, PhD, Director of Analytical Biochemistry, Inscripta
Abstract: Heterologous protein production is an indispensable tool in biotechnology and biopharma for manufacturing enzymes, protein therapeutics, and more. Generating robust production strains involves strategies that target both the protein expression cassette and the host genome. However, despite advances in strain engineering, optimization of protein production is still constrained by low-throughput and laborious methods that limit the success of strain optimization efforts.
In this GEN webinar, our distinguished presenter, Dr. Eric Abbate, will demonstrate a novel multiplexed genome-wide editing approach to optimize the cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CBH1) production in S. cerevisiae. Additionally, we will learn how multiplexed and trackable editing libraries enable the discovery of new targets. These libraries comprise a wide range of edit types and targets, including genome-wide and targeted knockouts, short deletions, alternate codon, transcription factor binding sites, and terminator libraries. Finally, Dr. Abbate will describe how to identify beneficial edits across targets involved in transcription, translation, glycosylation, secretion, protein degradation, and other cellular processes, as well as evaluate the success of using targeted vs. untargeted libraries for strain engineering.
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In this GEN webinar, our distinguished presenter, Dr. Eric Abbate, will demonstrate a novel multiplexed genome-wide editing approach to optimize the cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CBH1) production in S. cerevisiae. Additionally, we will learn how multiplexed and trackable editing libraries enable the discovery of new targets. These libraries comprise a wide range of edit types and targets, including genome-wide and targeted knockouts, short deletions, alternate codon, transcription factor binding sites, and terminator libraries. Finally, Dr. Abbate will describe how to identify beneficial edits across targets involved in transcription, translation, glycosylation, secretion, protein degradation, and other cellular processes, as well as evaluate the success of using targeted vs. untargeted libraries for strain engineering.
January 10, 2022
40th Annual J.P. Morgan HealthCare Conference — Synthetic Biology Panel
40th Annual J.P. Morgan HealthCare Conference — Synthetic Biology Panel
Date: January 10, 2022
Speaker: - Max G. Bronstein, Assistant Director for Health Innovation, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy
— Jason Kelly, CEO, Ginkgo Bioworks
— Sri N. Kosaraju, President and CEO, Inscripta
— Gregory L. Yep, PhD, EVP, Chief Research & Development, Global Integrated Solutions and Sustainability Officer, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc
Moderators:
— Tycho Peterson, Managing Director, Life Science Tools & Diagnostics, J.P. Morgan
— Ipsita Smolinski, Managing Director, Capitol Street
— Jason Kelly, CEO, Ginkgo Bioworks
— Sri N. Kosaraju, President and CEO, Inscripta
— Gregory L. Yep, PhD, EVP, Chief Research & Development, Global Integrated Solutions and Sustainability Officer, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc
Moderators:
— Tycho Peterson, Managing Director, Life Science Tools & Diagnostics, J.P. Morgan
— Ipsita Smolinski, Managing Director, Capitol Street
Abstract: Join the panel to discuss the genetic technology known as synthetic biology. Two industry heavyweights — Ginkgo & Inscripta — will describe genomic engineering & organism technologies. The White House will weigh in on how it evaluates technologies and partnerships to further US science and technology priorities. One key trade association will discuss the impact synthetic biology has on non-health applications, fragrances and other flavors.
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November 17, 2021
Chemicals & Materials Virtual Event — SynBioBeta 2021
Chemicals & Materials Virtual Event — SynBioBeta 2021
Date: November 17, 2021
Speaker: Patrick Westfall, Senior Director, Inscripta. Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President, R&D, Amyris. Andrew Horwitz, Vice President, R&D, Sestina Bio.
Abstract: Inscripta’s Senior Director of Cell Biology, Patrick Westfall, led a panel discussion “Biological Engineering the Next Generation of Materials and Chemicals” with Kirsten Benjamin, Vice President of R&D Amyris, and Andrew Horwitz of Sestina Bio. Westfall asked the panelists about the process of selecting products they want to make and what considerations go into making those decisions.
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November 16, 2021
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Date: November 16, 2021
Speaker: Patrick J. Westfall, PhD, Senior Director of Cell Biology, Inscripta Inc
Abstract: Discovery in biological research was historically driven by empirical methods. The advent of biological engineering, propelled by technological developments and new tools, has made rational hypothesis-driven design and engineering of biological systems more feasible and common. Although they are often seen as opposing approaches, the empirical and rational methods can work together to accelerate fundamental research and product development. Whereas forward engineering is guided by informed design of known biological pathways and processes, the exploratory empirical methods allow to expand the design space beyond the scope of current knowledge. This webinar discusses the advantages of each method and how they could be implemented in tandem to advance biological engineering.
VIEW MORE
October 14, 2021
Heterologous Protein Engineering and characterization of native regulatory elements in E. coli using Massively Parallel CRISPR Editing
Heterologous Protein Engineering and characterization of native regulatory elements in E. coli using Massively Parallel CRISPR Editing
Date: October 14, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD, Microbial Engineering Applications Manager, Inscripta
Abstract: Heterologous protein expression in model organisms has many applications, including protein engineering, production of industrial enzymes and therapeutics, and structure-function discovery. Heterologous proteins are commonly expressed from plasmids to facilitate cloning and genetic manipulation. However, plasmid-based expression has many drawbacks, such as reduced stability and limited control over gene copy number. With CRISPR editing, chromosomal gene integration and subsequent editing has become more accessible, enabling thorough examination of protein expression and function. In this webinar, we demonstrate how we generated an E. coli saturation mutagenesis library for a chromosomally expressed green fluorescent protein (GFP) using the OnyxTM platform. We identify several engineered variants with increased fluorescence or altered spectral characteristics, including literature validated and novel variants. We also generate a library of all predicted E. coli promoters and ribosome binding sites (RBS) and quantify their strength using the engineered high-expression GFP reporter system. These high-throughput experiments yield insights into native regulatory sequences and demonstrate the advantages of heterologous protein engineering directly in the host genome.
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September 13, 2021
Identifying genome-wide targets of osmotic stress tolerance in E. coli using CRISPR-mediated forward engineering
Identifying genome-wide targets of osmotic stress tolerance in E. coli using CRISPR-mediated forward engineering
Date: September 13, 2021
Speaker: Katherine Krouse, Sr. Research Associate, Applications Development, Inscripta
Abstract: Biological responses to environmental stress can arise from multiple genetic solutions encoding tolerance mechanisms. In order to investigate the response to osmotic pressure in E. coli, we used an automated CRISPR editing workflow to generate a diverse cell population that included gene knockouts and different strength promoter substitution libraries targeting almost every gene in the genome. The resulting 25,000-variant pooled library was studied under a titrated salt challenge and the population dynamics were tracked using plasmid barcodes. By mapping 300,000 data points, we identified clear enrichment and depletion patterns and connected those back to functional genome annotations. We were able to rapidly validate our experiment with the performance of known salt stress tolerance loci, such as rpoE and osmE, and discover new gene targets.
VIEW MORE
August 25, 2021
Improving heterologous protein production in yeast with massively parallel CRISPR genome editing
Improving heterologous protein production in yeast with massively parallel CRISPR genome editing
Date: August 25, 2021
Speaker: Eric Abbate
Abstract: Heterologous protein production is an indispensable tool in biotechnology and biopharma for manufacturing enzymes, protein therapeutics, and more. Generating robust production strains involves strategies that target the protein itself as well as the host genome. Despite advances in strain engineering, optimization of protein production is still limited by the ability to access the broad sequence space, constrained by traditional, low-throughput, and laborious methods like promoter substitutions or random mutagenesis. Here we use a genome-wide, multiplexed, targeted editing approach that can generate diverse edit types in both the heterologous gene and across the host genome to optimize production of cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CHB1) in S. cerevisiae. The edits conferring improved CBH1 expression span cellular processes important for protein production, including transcription, translation, secretion, and protein degradation pathways.
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July 28, 2021
Population bottlenecks strongly affect the evolutionary dynamics of antibiotic persistence
Population bottlenecks strongly affect the evolutionary dynamics of antibiotic persistence
Date: July 28, 2021
Speaker: Bram Van den Bergh — Postdoctoral Researcher, KU Leuven | FWO | VIB Centre for Microbiology
Abstract: Bacterial persistence is a potential cause of antibiotic therapy failure. Recent studies have shown that persistence is a highly evolvable trait, reaching varying frequencies within populations, depending on the selective conditions that are applied (e.g. the treatment frequency). Theory predicts that population bottlenecks, frequently encountered during host-to-host transmission and antibiotic treatment, have far-reaching effects on the evolutionary dynamics of persistence. Here, we used a combination of experimental evolution and barcoded knockout libraries to examine this hypothesis. Small bottlenecks were found to restrict the adaptive potential of populations and result in more heterogeneous evolutionary outcomes, suggest that the fitness landscape of persistence has a rugged topography. Furthermore, sequencing data revealed genes that are potentially involved in persistence, including previously known as well as novel targets.
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June 15, 2021
CRISPR-based multiplexed genome editing for improved heterologous protein engineering and expression in E. coli
CRISPR-based multiplexed genome editing for improved heterologous protein engineering and expression in E. coli
Date: June 15, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd
Abstract: During this webinar, discover how Inscripta experts generated an Escherichia coli saturation mutagenesis library against an integrated green fluorescent protein (GFP) using CRISPR-based technology, in a few short weeks.
Watch Video
May 26, 2021
Delivering on the Promise: Synthetic Biology in Biopharma Bioproduction
Delivering on the Promise: Synthetic Biology in Biopharma Bioproduction
Date: May 26, 2021
Speaker: Sri Kosaraju — President & CEO, Inscripta; Grant Murphy — Director of Protein Engineering, Merck & Co; Chris Savile — Chief Operations Officer, Willow Biosciences; Barry Canton — Chief Technical Officer, Gingko Bioworks
Abstract: The panel of industry leaders discuss technologies and microbial applications of synthetic biology in biopharma bioproduction.
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May 25, 2021
Massively Parallel CRISPR Genome Editing in S. cerevisiae
Massively Parallel CRISPR Genome Editing in S. cerevisiae
Date: May 25, 2021
Speaker: Bryan Leland
Abstract: In this webinar, we will discuss our work using the Onyx platform to perform genome-wide engineering of S. cerevisiae for various applications including target discovery to increase glycerol utilization, strain optimization, and forward engineering. These applications are enabled by Onyx’s ability to deliver diverse edit types that regulate gene function and expression beyond simple gene knock-outs. In total, dozens of libraries of engineered cells, containing over 100,000 precise genomic edits have been created and tested to accelerate forward engineering and genomic discovery.
Watch Video
April 27, 2021
Proteins, Pathways and Genomes: Innovations in Forward Engineering
Proteins, Pathways and Genomes: Innovations in Forward Engineering
Date: April 27, 2021
Speaker: Eric Abbate
Abstract: Lysine, predominately used as an animal feed supplement, is a multi-billion-dollar industry however supply is limited due to the cost of current production methods. This webinar will share case studies how Inscripta leveraged its new CRISPR-based technology to design, generate, and screen libraries totaling > 200,000 single edits to improve lysine production in E. coli. Dozens of beneficial edits across the entire genome were discovered to accelerate the Design-Generate-Test-Learn cycle and increase the lysine production by 14,000-fold — ushering in the next era of genome editing.
View More
March 30, 2021
A New Era in Forward Engineering of Proteins, Pathways and Genomes using the Onyx™ Platform
A New Era in Forward Engineering of Proteins, Pathways and Genomes using the Onyx™ Platform
Date: March 30, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd
Abstract: Since its introduction, CRISPR has become a core genome editing tool that has transformed biological research. First-generation CRISPR technologies were limited in scalability, accessibility, edit variety, and ease of use, restricting their potential. Inscripta’s Onyx™ platform addresses these limitations by combining easy-to-use, intuitive software with a push-button automated benchtop device, enabling high-efficiency, massively-parallel, precision-engineered edits to Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli genomes. In this webinar , Tyson Shepherd will present applications in E. coli that leverage this platform. He will show how a library totaling more than 25,000 different designs and a separate library of 900 designs yielded new biochemical insights underpinning tolerance to a panel of growth-inhibitory compounds. These applications demonstrate the power of the Onyx platform to usher in a new era of genome editing.
Watch Video
October 20, 2020
Massively parallel CRISPR genome editing in S. cerevisiae using the Onyx Platform
Massively parallel CRISPR genome editing in S. cerevisiae using the Onyx Platform
Date: October 20, 2020
Speaker: Bryan Leland
Abstract: In this webinar, we discuss our work using the Onyx platform to perform genome-wide engineering of S. cerevisiae for various applications including target discovery to increase glycerol utilization, strain optimization, and forward engineering. These applications are enabled by Onyx’s ability to deliver diverse edit types that regulate gene function and expression beyond simple gene knock-outs. In total, dozens of libraries of engineered cells, containing over 100,000 precise, genomic edits have been created and tested to accelerate forward engineering and genomic discovery.
Watch Video
September 1, 2020
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 2 Combinatorial Optimization
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 2 Combinatorial Optimization
Date: September 1, 2020
Speaker: Richard Fox
Abstract: Many of the governing rules of biology are still not known nor well understood. Thus, forward engineering of biological systems will continue to rely on empirical methods. A central challenge in forward engineering is to find genetic interventions that lead to improved function. Combinatorial optimization (fueled by large-scale diversity generation) takes ideas that show promise and recombines them in novel configurations to leverage the principles of evolutionary optimization. This optimization process is further accelerated through strategies that incorporate machine learning. Such models are interrogated to efficiently guide new library designs. Strategies and tools to effectively apply the principles of diversity generation (and combinatorial optimization) have been developed over the last two decades and are now routinely used to rapidly engineer biological systems.
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August 25, 2020
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 1 Diversity Generation
Rapid Forward Engineering of Biological Systems: Part 1 Diversity Generation
Date: August 25, 2020
Speaker: Richard Fox
Abstract: Significant potential exists to harness the power of biology to better humanity and the environment, however, substantial challenges remain. Forward engineering of biological systems will continue to rely on empirical methods. Diversity generation is one of two key principles needed to reach desired outcomes in a rapid, efficient and cost-effective manner. Sequence space is vast. A central challenge in forward engineering is to find genetic interventions that lead to improved function. A large-scale diversity generation approach, where many thousands of ideas are rapidly tested, has proved to be crucial to addressing this challenge. Strategies and tools to effectively apply the principles of diversity generation (and combinatorial optimization) have been developed over the last two decades and are now routinely used to rapidly engineer biological systems.
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June 14, 2022
Improving protein expression in E. coli B‑strains using rapid genome engineering
Improving protein expression in E. coli B‑strains using rapid genome engineering
Date: June 14, 2022
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD, Microbial Engineering Applications Manager, Inscripta
Abstract: E. coli B‑strains, such as BL21, and their derivatives are often used for protein expression due to their optimized amino acid production, ATP utilization, lon and ompT protease deficiency, and reduced acetate accumulation. However, optimizing B‑strains for increased protein production using modern approaches to genome engineering has not been reported. Here we apply CRISPR-based, high-throughput genome-wide and pathway-specific editing to improve the expression of an enzyme. With shallow sampling of the genome-edited libraries, we identify variants with greater than 2‑fold improvement in active protein expression. This work demonstrates how rapid genome engineering can be applied to significantly enhance protein expression in E. coli.
April 5, 2022
Investigating antimicrobial mechanisms-of-action using automated genome-wide and gene-specific editing
Investigating antimicrobial mechanisms-of-action using automated genome-wide and gene-specific editing
Date: April 5, 2022
Speaker: Ali Clark-ElSayed, Research Associate, Inscripta
Abstract: Members of the cinnamic acid and stilbenoid chemical families are common intermediates in the production of important bioindustrial compounds. However, these molecules can inhibit microbial growth and stifle production capabilities. Since the underlying mechanism of action is unclear, ways to ameliorate inhibition can be time consuming and difficult to identify. Here we use automated, high-throughput, precise and trackable genome editing to probe biological responses to p‑coumaric acid and resveratrol. Using a combination of genome-wide and gene-specific edits, we identify genes and individual residues that show enrichment or depletion in the presence of p‑coumaric acid or resveratrol. This method represents a new approach to small molecule mechanisms-of-action discovery, providing target leads that can subsequently be used to engineer tolerance or enhance sensitivity to antimicrobial compounds.
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February 1, 2022
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Date: February 1, 2022
Abstract: The Design – Generate – Test – Learn (DGTL) cycle represents an efficient approach to biological engineering, from single-gene to whole-genome scale. Significant improvement can be achieved in a short amount of time by recombining beneficial edits through iterative cycles of genome editing. In order to cut down development times, all aspects of the DGLT cycle must be optimized. The Onyx™ Digital Genome Engineering Platform automates the Design and Generate steps, allowing the user to create thousands of edits, identify the beneficial variants, and construct new libraries based on the improved strains – all in an integrated, seamless workflow. Here we demonstrate how Iterative Genome Engineering can be used to discover novel protein variants, optimize expression, and improve heterologous protein production in yeast and E. coli strains.
VIEW MORE
November 16, 2021
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Date: November 16, 2021
Speaker: Patrick J. Westfall, PhD, Senior Director of Cell Biology, Inscripta Inc
Abstract: Discovery in biological research was historically driven by empirical methods. The advent of biological engineering, propelled by technological developments and new tools, has made rational hypothesis-driven design and engineering of biological systems more feasible and common. Although they are often seen as opposing approaches, the empirical and rational methods can work together to accelerate fundamental research and product development. Whereas forward engineering is guided by informed design of known biological pathways and processes, the exploratory empirical methods allow to expand the design space beyond the scope of current knowledge. This webinar discusses the advantages of each method and how they could be implemented in tandem to advance biological engineering.
VIEW MORE
October 14, 2021
Heterologous Protein Engineering and characterization of native regulatory elements in E. coli using Massively Parallel CRISPR Editing
Heterologous Protein Engineering and characterization of native regulatory elements in E. coli using Massively Parallel CRISPR Editing
Date: October 14, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd, PhD, Microbial Engineering Applications Manager, Inscripta
Abstract: Heterologous protein expression in model organisms has many applications, including protein engineering, production of industrial enzymes and therapeutics, and structure-function discovery. Heterologous proteins are commonly expressed from plasmids to facilitate cloning and genetic manipulation. However, plasmid-based expression has many drawbacks, such as reduced stability and limited control over gene copy number. With CRISPR editing, chromosomal gene integration and subsequent editing has become more accessible, enabling thorough examination of protein expression and function. In this webinar, we demonstrate how we generated an E. coli saturation mutagenesis library for a chromosomally expressed green fluorescent protein (GFP) using the OnyxTM platform. We identify several engineered variants with increased fluorescence or altered spectral characteristics, including literature validated and novel variants. We also generate a library of all predicted E. coli promoters and ribosome binding sites (RBS) and quantify their strength using the engineered high-expression GFP reporter system. These high-throughput experiments yield insights into native regulatory sequences and demonstrate the advantages of heterologous protein engineering directly in the host genome.
VIEW MORE
September 13, 2021
Identifying genome-wide targets of osmotic stress tolerance in E. coli using CRISPR-mediated forward engineering
Identifying genome-wide targets of osmotic stress tolerance in E. coli using CRISPR-mediated forward engineering
Date: September 13, 2021
Speaker: Katherine Krouse, Sr. Research Associate, Applications Development, Inscripta
Abstract: Biological responses to environmental stress can arise from multiple genetic solutions encoding tolerance mechanisms. In order to investigate the response to osmotic pressure in E. coli, we used an automated CRISPR editing workflow to generate a diverse cell population that included gene knockouts and different strength promoter substitution libraries targeting almost every gene in the genome. The resulting 25,000-variant pooled library was studied under a titrated salt challenge and the population dynamics were tracked using plasmid barcodes. By mapping 300,000 data points, we identified clear enrichment and depletion patterns and connected those back to functional genome annotations. We were able to rapidly validate our experiment with the performance of known salt stress tolerance loci, such as rpoE and osmE, and discover new gene targets.
VIEW MORE
June 15, 2021
CRISPR-based multiplexed genome editing for improved heterologous protein engineering and expression in E. coli
CRISPR-based multiplexed genome editing for improved heterologous protein engineering and expression in E. coli
Date: June 15, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd
Abstract: During this webinar, discover how Inscripta experts generated an Escherichia coli saturation mutagenesis library against an integrated green fluorescent protein (GFP) using CRISPR-based technology, in a few short weeks.
Watch Video
April 27, 2021
Proteins, Pathways and Genomes: Innovations in Forward Engineering
Proteins, Pathways and Genomes: Innovations in Forward Engineering
Date: April 27, 2021
Speaker: Eric Abbate
Abstract: Lysine, predominately used as an animal feed supplement, is a multi-billion-dollar industry however supply is limited due to the cost of current production methods. This webinar will share case studies how Inscripta leveraged its new CRISPR-based technology to design, generate, and screen libraries totaling > 200,000 single edits to improve lysine production in E. coli. Dozens of beneficial edits across the entire genome were discovered to accelerate the Design-Generate-Test-Learn cycle and increase the lysine production by 14,000-fold — ushering in the next era of genome editing.
View More
March 30, 2021
A New Era in Forward Engineering of Proteins, Pathways and Genomes using the Onyx™ Platform
A New Era in Forward Engineering of Proteins, Pathways and Genomes using the Onyx™ Platform
Date: March 30, 2021
Speaker: Tyson Shepherd
Abstract: Since its introduction, CRISPR has become a core genome editing tool that has transformed biological research. First-generation CRISPR technologies were limited in scalability, accessibility, edit variety, and ease of use, restricting their potential. Inscripta’s Onyx™ platform addresses these limitations by combining easy-to-use, intuitive software with a push-button automated benchtop device, enabling high-efficiency, massively-parallel, precision-engineered edits to Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli genomes. In this webinar , Tyson Shepherd will present applications in E. coli that leverage this platform. He will show how a library totaling more than 25,000 different designs and a separate library of 900 designs yielded new biochemical insights underpinning tolerance to a panel of growth-inhibitory compounds. These applications demonstrate the power of the Onyx platform to usher in a new era of genome editing.
Watch Video
January 26, 2021
High-throughput CRISPR editing using the Onyx platform identifies essential residues in proteins
High-throughput CRISPR editing using the Onyx platform identifies essential residues in proteins
Date: January 26, 2021
Speaker: Liselot Dewachter and Laura Klitten
Abstract: In this study, we used the high-throughput CRISPR-based Onyx platform to perform saturation mutagenesis on four different essential genes involved in cell envelope synthesis in E. coli. 22,790 edits were designed. We used these saturation mutagenesis libraries to probe the essentiality of all different residues. Edits that could not be introduced suggests those residues are essential for protein function. We identified known essential amino acids (i.e. catalytic residues and residues involved in substrate binding), thereby validating our experimental approach. Several residues that were previously not known to be essential were identified. We expect our results to offer vastly improved insights into protein function, help fight against antibiotic resistance and aid structure-based drug design targeted against these essential proteins.
Watch Video
February 1, 2022
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Iterative Genome Engineering for Rapid Improvement of Protein Activity and Production
Date: February 1, 2022
Abstract: The Design – Generate – Test – Learn (DGTL) cycle represents an efficient approach to biological engineering, from single-gene to whole-genome scale. Significant improvement can be achieved in a short amount of time by recombining beneficial edits through iterative cycles of genome editing. In order to cut down development times, all aspects of the DGLT cycle must be optimized. The Onyx™ Digital Genome Engineering Platform automates the Design and Generate steps, allowing the user to create thousands of edits, identify the beneficial variants, and construct new libraries based on the improved strains – all in an integrated, seamless workflow. Here we demonstrate how Iterative Genome Engineering can be used to discover novel protein variants, optimize expression, and improve heterologous protein production in yeast and E. coli strains.
VIEW MORE
January 13, 2022
Genome-Wide CRISPR Editing for Improved Protein Expression in Yeast
Genome-Wide CRISPR Editing for Improved Protein Expression in Yeast
Date: January 13, 2022
Speaker: Eric Abbate, PhD, Director of Analytical Biochemistry, Inscripta
Abstract: Heterologous protein production is an indispensable tool in biotechnology and biopharma for manufacturing enzymes, protein therapeutics, and more. Generating robust production strains involves strategies that target both the protein expression cassette and the host genome. However, despite advances in strain engineering, optimization of protein production is still constrained by low-throughput and laborious methods that limit the success of strain optimization efforts.
In this GEN webinar, our distinguished presenter, Dr. Eric Abbate, will demonstrate a novel multiplexed genome-wide editing approach to optimize the cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CBH1) production in S. cerevisiae. Additionally, we will learn how multiplexed and trackable editing libraries enable the discovery of new targets. These libraries comprise a wide range of edit types and targets, including genome-wide and targeted knockouts, short deletions, alternate codon, transcription factor binding sites, and terminator libraries. Finally, Dr. Abbate will describe how to identify beneficial edits across targets involved in transcription, translation, glycosylation, secretion, protein degradation, and other cellular processes, as well as evaluate the success of using targeted vs. untargeted libraries for strain engineering.
VIEW MORE
In this GEN webinar, our distinguished presenter, Dr. Eric Abbate, will demonstrate a novel multiplexed genome-wide editing approach to optimize the cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CBH1) production in S. cerevisiae. Additionally, we will learn how multiplexed and trackable editing libraries enable the discovery of new targets. These libraries comprise a wide range of edit types and targets, including genome-wide and targeted knockouts, short deletions, alternate codon, transcription factor binding sites, and terminator libraries. Finally, Dr. Abbate will describe how to identify beneficial edits across targets involved in transcription, translation, glycosylation, secretion, protein degradation, and other cellular processes, as well as evaluate the success of using targeted vs. untargeted libraries for strain engineering.
November 16, 2021
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Newton’s Cradle: Exploring rational and empirical design space with Engineering Biology
Date: November 16, 2021
Speaker: Patrick J. Westfall, PhD, Senior Director of Cell Biology, Inscripta Inc
Abstract: Discovery in biological research was historically driven by empirical methods. The advent of biological engineering, propelled by technological developments and new tools, has made rational hypothesis-driven design and engineering of biological systems more feasible and common. Although they are often seen as opposing approaches, the empirical and rational methods can work together to accelerate fundamental research and product development. Whereas forward engineering is guided by informed design of known biological pathways and processes, the exploratory empirical methods allow to expand the design space beyond the scope of current knowledge. This webinar discusses the advantages of each method and how they could be implemented in tandem to advance biological engineering.
VIEW MORE
August 25, 2021
Improving heterologous protein production in yeast with massively parallel CRISPR genome editing
Improving heterologous protein production in yeast with massively parallel CRISPR genome editing
Date: August 25, 2021
Speaker: Eric Abbate
Abstract: Heterologous protein production is an indispensable tool in biotechnology and biopharma for manufacturing enzymes, protein therapeutics, and more. Generating robust production strains involves strategies that target the protein itself as well as the host genome. Despite advances in strain engineering, optimization of protein production is still limited by the ability to access the broad sequence space, constrained by traditional, low-throughput, and laborious methods like promoter substitutions or random mutagenesis. Here we use a genome-wide, multiplexed, targeted editing approach that can generate diverse edit types in both the heterologous gene and across the host genome to optimize production of cellobiohydrolase I enzyme (CHB1) in S. cerevisiae. The edits conferring improved CBH1 expression span cellular processes important for protein production, including transcription, translation, secretion, and protein degradation pathways.
VIEW MORE
May 25, 2021
Massively Parallel CRISPR Genome Editing in S. cerevisiae
Massively Parallel CRISPR Genome Editing in S. cerevisiae
Date: May 25, 2021
Speaker: Bryan Leland
Abstract: In this webinar, we will discuss our work using the Onyx platform to perform genome-wide engineering of S. cerevisiae for various applications including target discovery to increase glycerol utilization, strain optimization, and forward engineering. These applications are enabled by Onyx’s ability to deliver diverse edit types that regulate gene function and expression beyond simple gene knock-outs. In total, dozens of libraries of engineered cells, containing over 100,000 precise genomic edits have been created and tested to accelerate forward engineering and genomic discovery.
Watch Video
October 20, 2020
Massively parallel CRISPR genome editing in S. cerevisiae using the Onyx Platform
Massively parallel CRISPR genome editing in S. cerevisiae using the Onyx Platform
Date: October 20, 2020
Speaker: Bryan Leland
Abstract: In this webinar, we discuss our work using the Onyx platform to perform genome-wide engineering of S. cerevisiae for various applications including target discovery to increase glycerol utilization, strain optimization, and forward engineering. These applications are enabled by Onyx’s ability to deliver diverse edit types that regulate gene function and expression beyond simple gene knock-outs. In total, dozens of libraries of engineered cells, containing over 100,000 precise, genomic edits have been created and tested to accelerate forward engineering and genomic discovery.
Watch Video
December 8, 2021
The MAD7™ nuclease in plant editing: overcoming CRISPR bottlenecks with MAD TiGER
The MAD7™ nuclease in plant editing: overcoming CRISPR bottlenecks with MAD TiGER
Date: December 8, 2021
Speaker: Gabino Sanchez, Business Development Director, Hudson River Biotechnology
Ben Mijts, Senior Director Enzyme Engineering, Inscripta
Ben Mijts, Senior Director Enzyme Engineering, Inscripta
Abstract: CRISPR editing has revolutionized plant breeding, and the MAD7 CRISPR nuclease developed by InscriptaTM is democratizing access to CRISPR technologies. Hudson River Biotechnology has developed a proprietary, validated molecular breeding workflow called MAD TiGER, which stands for Target identification, Guide selection, Entry into the cell and Regeneration using the MAD7 nuclease. MAD TiGER enables molecular breeding in an end-to-end fashion, providing innovative solutions to the typical barriers encountered in CRISPR plant breeding projects, such as cell entry and regeneration. The MAD TiGER workflow uses the MAD7 nuclease, nanotechnology and various synthetic gels to enable faster onset of cell divisions in regenerating and de-differentiating protoplasts towards micro-calli formation. During this webinar, Gabino Sanchez of Hudson River Biotechnology will provide an overview of the MAD TiGER workflow and discuss examples of using an integrated workflow for molecular breeding. You will also learn more about the MAD7 nuclease from Inscripta.
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March 9, 2022
Biosecurity for Genome Engineering: Safety First and the SeqScreen Solution for Functional Predictions
Biosecurity for Genome Engineering: Safety First and the SeqScreen Solution for Functional Predictions
Date: March 9, 2022
Speaker:
Todd Treangen, Assistant Professor, Computer Science, Rice University
Krista Ternus, PhD, Genomics/Bioinformatics Specialist; Science and Technology Advisor at Signature Science, LLC
Beth Vitalis, PhD, Biosecurity Specialist, Inscripta Inc
Todd Treangen, Assistant Professor, Computer Science, Rice University
Krista Ternus, PhD, Genomics/Bioinformatics Specialist; Science and Technology Advisor at Signature Science, LLC
Beth Vitalis, PhD, Biosecurity Specialist, Inscripta Inc
Abstract: Bioengineering technologies hold enormous potential to solve many of our world’s pressing problems. However, they also pose biosecurity considerations. Inscripta® is committed to safe use of its genome engineering technology and has implemented multi-faceted biosecurity system designed to identify and help prevent biorisk potential of engineered organisms. Drs. Ternus, Treangen, and Vitalis will describe approaches and challenges of genome engineering biosecurity and highlight a computational tool that can predict protein function of large numbers of engineered sequence variants. The SeqScreen platform was developed by a multi-institutional team led by Signature Science and Rice University under the IARPA Fun GCAT program. Case studies will illustrate how SeqScreen serves as a comprehensive tool to report features and predicted function of novel sequences arising from bioengineering.
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